Abstract:
The National Snow and Ice Data Center was established by NOAA in 1982 to serve as a national information and referral center in support of glaciological research. The mission of NSIDC is to make fundamental contributions to cryospheric science and excel in managing data and disseminating information in order to advance understanding of the Earth system.

The web site contains links to descriptive information for all data sets held by NSIDC. Documents describing the projects, platforms, and instruments used to collect data are also available from NSIDC. Polar GIS data in the form of ARC/INFO coverages and DEM's (Digital Elevation Maps) are described in detail and can also be downloaded. All other NSIDC data and documentation can be downloaded or ordered via an online form.

Quality
This resource is best suited for higher education students, scientists and professional seeking polar information and data.

Access Constraints
Data may be accessed and used only for official business by authorized personnel. All information on the computer system may be intercepted, recorded, read, copied, and disclosed by and to authorized personnel for official purposes, including criminal investigations. Access or use of the computer system by any person whether authorized or unauthorized, constitutes consent to these terms.